USDA awards loans, grants to three power associations

AROUND MISSISSIPPI — Loans and grant funds will be provided to applicants in 11 states to support businesses, improve the quality of medical care, and create or save hundreds of jobs through the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Rural Economic Development Loan and Grant program.

Three electric power associations in Mississippi are receiving loans and/or grants.

Awardees are:

• East Mississippi Electric Power Association — Receiving a $1 million loan and $300,000 grant to construct and equip a 10,860-square-foot workforce education building.

• Singing River Electric Power Association — Receiving a $1 million loan to purchase 89 acres of real estate and cover infrastructure-related costs.

• Southern Pine Electric Power Association — Receiving a $375,000 loan to help construct a 5,000-square-foot educational classroom to expand educational facilities for Simpson County Academy.